Cost of Living in Sylacauga, AL
Population 12,388 · Alabama · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Household incomes in Sylacauga run well below national norms — a median of $46,384 versus the $74,580 US figure. Housing costs partially offset that gap (typical home values around $157,000). A poverty rate near 25% adds context to the income figures — well above the US average, and worth factoring into any comparison with cities on the coasts or in the Rockies.
Sylacauga is about 40 miles southeast of Birmingham, the nearest large metro — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 13% higher than Birmingham's $139,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Sylacauga
The median home value in Sylacauga is $156,800 — 49% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $717/month, 45% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $46,384/year is 38% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 7.9%, above the national average of 4.8%. Alabama's top state income tax rate is 5.0% and the combined sales tax is 9.2%. Overall, Sylacauga has a cost of living index of 53 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 47% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Sylacauga, AL?
Sylacauga has a cost index of 53 (100 = national average). It is 47% below the national average.
What is average rent in Sylacauga, AL?
The median gross rent in Sylacauga is $717 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Sylacauga?
The median home value in Sylacauga is $156,800 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Sylacauga?
The median household income in Sylacauga is $46,384 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Sylacauga, AL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Sylacauga is 9.2%. The Alabama state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Sylacauga, AL affordable?
Yes, Sylacauga is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 53 — about 47% below the US national average of 100.
Sylacauga at a Glance
- Population
- 12,388
- Median Income
- $46,384
- Home Value
- $156,800
- Median Rent
- $717/mo
- Unemployment
- 7.9%
- Sales Tax
- 9.2%
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Alabama Rankings
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